Beloved Child

     Our children and grandchildren represent what is sustaining us during this time. The following devotion was written almost 2 years ago. Now, we celebrate the birth of another sweet grandson. This devotion and the miracle of birth reminded me of all we see and all we experience through these amazing lives of ours. And we remain God’s beloved children no matter our age.

     Our precious children bring us delight, worry, wonder and deep love. As our youngest daughter is dealing with an almost 6-month old who doesn’t want to sleep in his crib, I am reminded of the attachment we share. I have sleepless nights worrying about her sleepless nights. I pray for our daughters’ well-being every day and pray for peace, joy and happiness for both of them and their families.

     I also recognize the fact that life is tough. There will be tears along with the laughter, struggle along with the sunshine, worry along with the wonder. The journey of life teaches us along the way, through the tough and through the terrific times.

     Our little sunshine, Gavin, is learning to sleep on his own, slowly, but surely. They are using a sleep-training method, where they go in the room every few minutes at first to pat him and comfort him as he cries and then extend the amount of time, and it looks like it just may be working.

     God trains us that way, too. Patiently, slowly, with a pat on the back, here and there, recognizing for us (which we don’t often recognize until much later) that the tough times in life bring out the best in us. As we teach our children through discipline or by allowing them to experience struggles without bailing them out, (and allowing our babies to cry it out a bit) we need to remember; it will, ultimately, be for their own well-being.

     Just as we remain in our children’s lives to support, to love, to teach and to nurture, so Jesus remains close by our side through the ups and downs of life. He doesn’t get dizzy on the ride. He won’t get off because He is tired or worn out. He doesn’t sleep. In the midnight hour, He is there, ready to listen and to assist.

     Just as we are here to answer the phone or to give our daughter a break from the exhausting life of new-baby care, God is there in a much deeper way. He knows the future. He doesn’t worry. He won’t make mistakes along the way, as we will. He knows our hearts. As much as we love and care for our children, He loves and cares for them even more.

I lift up my eyes to the hills-where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip-He who watches over you will not slumber. Psalm 121:1-3

Father,

Thank You for watching out for our children and grandchildren. Our hope and trust is in You. We praise You for being there through the days and nights of our lives. Protect us all and teach us everything You desire to make us servants of Jesus.

Amen